The Delaware Farm Bureau accepted a tribute 75 years in the making Wednesday afternoon honoring the impact and legacy of the statewide non-profit organization.
“The rapidly evolving nature of farming makes the work of the Delaware Farm Bureau more important than ever,” said State Rep. Charles Postles, tribute sponsor and member of the Kent County Farm Bureau’s board of directors. “Representing about 5,800 farmers, ranchers, watermen, and others, the Bureau speaks with a loud voice. It effectively advocates for our interests in Dover, and through our national partnerships, in Washington D.C. as well.”
The tribute, offered by Delaware’s House of Representatives, was just one of several tributes given to the group. Delaware’s Senate and the offices of Governor John Carney and Lt. Gov. Bethany Hall Long also offered tributes earlier this year.
“Agriculture remains Delaware’s leading sector and contributes approximately $10.5 Billion of activity to our State’s economy.” Delaware Farm Bureau President Richard Wilkins said. “We appreciate this great honor that you bestow upon Delaware Farm Bureau in recognition of our more than 75-year-old legacy. We will continue to lead Delaware agriculture as it travels down the pathway of continuous improvement and the journey of sustainability. Our members will continue to innovate and adapt to the needs of our consumers both here and abroad as we work diligently to expand our contributions to our Great State’s character and economy.”
Wilkins previously welcomed more than 400 guests to a farm bureau gala in December at Delaware Technical Community College’s Terry Campus in Dover. The event doubled as a chance to honor the bureau’s anniversary as well as distinguished members of the agricultural community.
Barbara Sapp was given the distinguished service to agriculture award after many years of service to the Delaware Farm Bureau and the greater farming community. The Mark Urian Family of Kent County was honored during the event, as well, as the 2019 Delaware Farm Bureau Farm Family of the Year. Top honors also went to Robert Garey, who was chosen as the Young Farmers and Ranchers Committee Supporter of the Year, and Michael Lynch, who was given the Young Farmers and Ranchers President’s Award.
The Delaware Farm Bureau was established in 1944 and has become one of the strongest farm organizations in the First State, providing a unified voice for Delaware’s farmers. It also provides leadership opportunities for young farmers and ranchers, women in the agricultural industry and others. A mobile agricultural lab also brings the industry to some of Delaware’s youngest students.
The Delaware Farm Bureau can be found online at defb.org.
